Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake

Wake up to the heavenly aroma of buttery croissants soaked in a rich, zesty orange custard and baked to golden perfection. This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is the ultimate brunch dish – flaky croissants, creamy custard, and a burst of citrus in every bite. It’s an easy, make-ahead recipe perfect for weekend mornings or special occasions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal prep time.
• Perfect for Brunch – Feeds a crowd and can be made ahead.
• Zesty & Sweet – A burst of orange flavor in every bite.
• Elegant Presentation – Looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Croissant Bake:

• 6 large croissants, torn into pieces
• 4 large eggs
• 1 ½ cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• Zest of 2 oranges
• ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt

For the Orange Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice (adjust for desired consistency)
• Zest of 1 orange

For Garnish:

• Fresh orange slices
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Microplane zester

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Croissants

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Tear the croissants into large chunks and place them in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Custard

• In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, orange zest, orange juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• Whisk until well combined and slightly frothy.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, ensuring all the croissants are well-coated.
• Gently press down on the croissants with a spatula to help them absorb the custard.
• Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes to soak up the custard.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

• Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
• If the top is browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil after 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Orange Glaze

• In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, orange juice, and orange zest until smooth.
• Adjust the consistency with more orange juice or powdered sugar as needed.

Step 6: Glaze and Garnish

• Remove the bake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
• Drizzle the orange glaze over the top.
• Garnish with fresh orange slices, a dusting of powdered sugar, and mint leaves for a pop of color.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake into squares and serve warm.
• Pair with a side of fresh fruit, yogurt, or a hot cup of coffee for a complete breakfast.

Tips for the Best Croissant Breakfast Bake

• Use Day-Old Croissants – Slightly stale croissants absorb the custard better, resulting in a richer, more custardy texture.
• Customize the Flavor – Add a splash of almond extract for a nutty twist or a sprinkle of chocolate chips for added sweetness.
• Make It Ahead – Assemble the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning for a stress-free brunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Fruit Salad – A bright, refreshing side to balance the richness of the bake.
• Vanilla Yogurt – Adds a creamy contrast and a touch of tanginess.
• Iced Coffee – The citrus notes pair perfectly with a cold, rich brew.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of bread?
   Yes! Brioche, challah, or French bread are great substitutes.
2. How do I prevent the bake from being too soggy?
   Ensure the croissants soak up the custard completely before baking, and use slightly stale croissants for better absorption.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the milk and cream with your favorite plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream.
4. Can I add nuts to this recipe?
   Absolutely! Toasted almonds, pecans, or walnuts add a nice crunch and extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Croissant Breakfast Bake is a decadent, citrus-infused delight that’s perfect for leisurely weekend breakfasts, holiday brunches, or whenever you want to indulge in something special. The combination of flaky croissants, creamy custard, and zesty orange glaze makes each bite unforgettable. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee and enjoy a little taste of sunshine in every slice!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 8g | Carbohydrates: 56g | Fat: 18g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 280mg

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